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Save money by avoiding redundant expenses

It's hard enough to make ends meet, so it's enough to make you cringe when you find out you're paying for things twice. You may be surprised to learn how easy it is to double dip into your own bank account.

It's hard enough to make ends meet, so it's enough to make you cringe when you find out you're paying for things twice. You may be surprised to learn how easy it is to double dip into your own bank account.

Here are some areas to look into for savings:

• Music sharing. Does everyone in your home have their own music list? Are you buying the same song twice under the same roof? While it's important to pay for music from legitimate sources, there's no need to spend $1.29 for the same song, three times in the same home. Appoint a family CMO —– Chief Music Officer —– to figure out the best music game plan.

There may be more work-arounds than you think. Home Sharing in iTunes is designed to let you easily share your iTunes media libraries among up to five computers in your household.

• Roadside assistance is another one you may be doubling up on. American Express offers roadside assistance for certain card holders, many of whom also have AAA memberships. Having said that, in the case of Amex, there are more stringent limitations. PlasticIQ.com spells out some of the details. If you've only got one or two vehicles and you're traditionally a light user of tow trucks, one or the other is probably sufficient.

• Warranties are another biggie. According to Kiplinger's, gold and platinum MasterCards, Visa Signature cards and American Express cards all extend the manufacturer's warranty by up to one year when you use the cards to purchase items. That means if you buy a two-year extended warranty from a retailer, you're paying twice for year No. 2.

• Many college students are covered by their parents' health insurance plans, and even more could be eligible next year and through age 26. At the same time, a growing number of colleges and universities are requiring students to have health insurance and are sponsoring their own plans. This duplicate coverage can cost families thousands of dollars over the course of a college career if you are auto-enrolled as part of accepting admission and don't opt out. Review your health care plans and school options and pick one.

These four moves alone, could save you hundreds of dollars this year.

Regina Lewis is a national television contributor and host of USA TODAY's "Money Quick Tips" videos. Follow her on Twitter: @ReginaLewis.